Fitness Programs at FSC Promote Student Wellness

By: Jessica Guarasci

FARMINGDALE, N.Y., September 30, 2025 – There are several opportunities for students at Farmingdale State College to prioritize their health and keep active. Campus Recreation offers a wide range of classes that encourage their mental and physical wellbeing as part of the fitness and group exercise programs. 

The programs, which include Zumba, yoga, self defense, strength training, and more, are made to accommodate a variety of interests and fitness levels. Farmingdale's goal is to give students the chance to improve their health in ways that work with their busy school schedules and lifestyles. 

The Campus Recreation office claims that the programs are designed to be flexible. In order to accommodate the variety of schedules, classes are offered at different times throughout the day and are free for all enrolled students. While some programs focus on cardiovascular fitness or mindfulness, others concentrate on conditioning and strength. 

Studies have shown that fitness and wellness have advantages outside of the gym, colleges across the country have made them a priority. According to a 2023 American College Health Association study, students who regularly exercised reported feeling less stressed and performing better academically than their non-active peers (ACHA, 2023). 

Students don't have to be athletes or fitness enthusiasts in order to participate in these programs. All fitness levels can participate in the classes, which are made to be inclusive for newcomers. Creating a friendly environment, boosting confidence, and encouraging them to enjoy getting active are the main objectives of the sessions. 

In addition to helping the students physically, they find that group settings help them develop a sense of community and belonging. These programs come with the benefit of meeting new people, forming connections outside of classes, and engaging in social activities. 

As colleges place an emphasis on supporting students, parents considering Farmingdale State College should take note of the schools wellness programs. The fitness classes are a part of a broader initiative to encourage healthy behaviors. 

The fitness classes support other health programs offered on campus like intramural sports, nutritional counseling, and counseling services. When combined, these activities provide students a variety of ways to reduce stress and maintain an active lifestyle particularly during stressful periods like midterms and finals. 

As discussions regarding students' mental health, stress and all around wellbeing come about, FSC’s programs show how even minor actions, like taking a quick dance or yoga class, can make a huge difference. 

Whether students want to take a break from their studies or improve strength, the Campus Recreation invites them to check the class schedule and try something new. Since participation can result in immediate physical and mental improvements, the program emphasizes that just showing up is the most important step. 

For more information about Farmingdale State College’s fitness and group programs, visit https://www.farmingdale.edu/campus-recreation/fitness-and-group-exercise.shtml.

References

(ACHA,2023) Spring 2023 reference group executive summary. (n.d.). https://www.acha.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/NCHA-III_SPRING_2023_REFERENCE_GROUP_EXECUTIVE_SUMMARY.pdf